Job Description Oxford Nanopore Technologies is headquartered at the Oxford Science Park outside Oxford, UK, with satellite offices, and a commercial presence in many global locations across the US, APAC and Europe. The company’s goal is to bring the widest benefits to society through enabling the analysis of anything, by anyone, anywhere. Oxford Nanopore has developed a new generation of nanopore-based sensing technology, enabling the real-time, high-performance, accessible and scalable analysis of DNA and RNA. The technology is used in more than 100 countries to understand the biology of humans and diseases, plants, animals, bacteria, viruses, and whole environments. Oxford Nanopore’s sequencing platform is the only technology that offers real-time analysis in fully scalable formats, from pocket to population-scale, and the only one that can sequence native DNA or RNA samples, with no restriction on read length. The Role Our Sample Technology team is responsible for the specification, development and performance of the company’s suite of nucleic acid sample preparation kits, and the development of end-to-end sample-to-answer workflows, all intimately associated with our sequencing platforms (e.g. MinION/GridION and PromethION). We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual with great lab-based skills to join the team as a Development Scientist. The role, based at the company’s Oxford headquarters, will support the development of new nanopore sequencing products, focusing on developing and delivering new biomolecular components (Key Features) within the cutting-edge sample-preparation kits. These kits are designed to handle a large variety of DNA and RNA sample types and are specific to customers’ particular requirements. Formally reporting to the Key Features Senior Scientist, the successful candidate will work across multiple projects, and be responsible for helping to deliver continuous improvement to the sample preparation kits, focusing on characterising, troubleshooting, and improving the performance of the biomolecular components contained within. In a highly collaborative role, the successful candidate will enjoy interacting with various stakeholders, from the Research division (through adopting and developing new ideas) to Production, where their work, ultimately, makes it into customers’ hands. The team itself is markedly multidisciplinary, containing biological and physical scientists, bioinformaticians, and software developers. What We Are Looking For We are looking for a highly motivated individual to join the Sample Technology Development Team, who will have experience in most of the following areas: Solid, hands-on experience manipulating DNA and RNA plus routine protein handling in an R&D or academic lab. Familiarity with core molecular-biology and biophysical techniques (e.g., agarose/PAGE or capillary/chip electrophoresis, RT‑qPCR, fluorescence‑based plate assays); ready to extend these skills with coaching. Exposure to assay design and optimisation; comfortable following SOPs and iterating protocols under guidance. Basic understanding of chromatographic methods for analysing or purifying biomolecules; deeper expertise is a bonus. Ability to perform sound experimental design, keep meticulous lab notes and manage time across several projects. Clear written and verbal communicator who enjoys collaborating in multidisciplinary teams and giving concise data readouts. Curiosity, attention to detail and a growth mindset; keen to develop new techniques and embrace feedback. Having knowledge and/or hands-on experience with oligonucleotide design and with Oxford Nanopore’s (or other NGS sequencing platforms) library preparation is a plus. Additionally, familiarity of Python, conda, R, or command‑line tools for data handling is an advantage. Responsibilities Include Execute DNA/RNA and protein characterisation workflows following established SOPs and daily direction from the Senior Scientist. Assist in setting up new biochemical, biophysical and sequencing‑based assays; focus on method execution and data capture. Carry out routine protein–DNA complex formation and chromatography‑based purifications. Operate Oxford Nanopore single‑molecule platforms and other core lab instruments. Perform first‑pass data analysis (e.g., library QC, read‑length stats) in Python/R or other tools. Prepare concise experiment summaries and slide decks for internal meetings, co‑presenting with the project lead where needed. The successful candidate will hold at least a degree (ideally a MSc/MBiochem or equivalent) in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry or a closely related field, together with roughly 1–3 years of relevant laboratory experience. We’re looking for someone organised, detail‑oriented and eager to broaden their skill set. The role is suited for a self-driven individual eager to learn and grow, who will be provided ample training and coaching, aimed to support their development. We offer outstanding benefits to include an attractive bonus, generous pension contributions, private healthcare and an excellent starting salary. Based within beautiful, landscaped surroundings with tree-lined walks, water features and a lake, all of which make for a wonderful working environment. If you are looking to utilise your skills to really make a difference to humankind, then consider joining our team and apply today! Please note that no terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate on the grounds of a person's gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation. Every candidate will be assessed only in accordance with their merits, qualifications and abilities to perform the duties of the job. About Us Oxford Nanopore Technologies: Our goal is to bring the widest benefits to society through enabling the analysis of anything, by anyone, anywhere. The company has developed a new generation of nanopore-based sensing technology for faster, information rich, accessible and affordable molecular analysis. The first application is DNA/RNA sequencing, and the technology is in development for the analysis of other types of molecules including proteins. The technology is used to understand and characterise the biology of humans and diseases such as cancer, plants, animals, bacteria, viruses, and whole environments. With a thriving culture of ambition and strong innovation goals, Oxford Nanopore is a UK headquartered company with global operations and customers in more than 125 countries.